To be honest, I haven’t heard about many metal bands from Ukraine at all. So I expected nothing really specific when I checked out SCARLETH – a band from Kiev formed in 2005. First thing I noticed: the sound itself reminds me of several bands form Finland, especially earlier Nightwish (not the vocals), Sonata Arctica & early Children of Bodom regarding the keyboard sound. But if I had to describe SCARLETH in one sentence, I’d say they are a female-fronted, younger version of Stratovarius.

The second track, at the latest, proves that SCARLETH’ sound goes into that direction. ‘Double Memory’ starts with a keyboard part that could have been written & played by Jens Johansson. So the keyboard is the band’s biggest strength but also the weakest part: There is simply too much of it on “The Silver Lining”. Yes, there are also good guitar riffs, but a moment later, there is that keyboard again. I like keyboards but only if it’s not too dominant regarding the guitars.

But enough said about the keyboard. Vocalist Oksana Element sings pop/rock style with a lower voice, but she shows her abilities in ‘The gates of the dark sun’. I’d compare her voice & vocal style with Lacuna Coil’s Cristina Scabbia first of all, especially in that song – maybe also Anette Olzon. It’s a slow & heavy track of eight minutes with oriental influences. The follow-up track ‘Voices’ is a big contrast regarding the speed. And there is this Stratovarius sound again.

On “The Silver Lining”, SCARLETH play with the sound of bands that obviously influenced them & combine them which is really interesting to listen to. What I miss – not a surprise regarding this fact – is a unique characteristic in their music. I like the music & Oksana Element taps her voice’s full potential. There also is a common theme in the band’s sound. Only that single detail is missing that makes it unique.

Nevertheless, “The Silver Lining” is a good album from a band that found the basis for it’s sound. If they find that little detail making their music outstanding, SCARLETH can become a great band. There is ability, there is passion, there is creativity. Now take the last step!